Newsletter V2

The Panama Canal & Costa Rica - Westbound

2015 Prices From $6,490 for 11 Days - Tauck Cruising

2014 marked the 100th year since the Panama Canal first opened its interoceanic route – a U.S. Army Corps of Engineering feat that put Panama at the center of global trade. Combine the fun of Tauck's Costa Rica tours with a Panama Canal cruise on our 11-day The Panama Canal & Costa Rica and enjoy up-close discoveries of amazing wildlife, fascinating centuries-old cultures and man-made marvels, and two-night stays in Panama City and San José. A 6-night voyage aboard the newly renovated yacht m/v Tere Moana includes a complete transit of the Panama Canal, and an opportunity for cultural exchange with locals. Explore the rich interior and its abundant wildlife with our expert naturalists. Go swimming or snorkeling, land on white sand beaches via Zodiac craft, visit a gold museum in San José and learn how coffee beans are harvested and brewed to perfection. Experience the best of our Costa Rica tours with the pleasures of Tauck small ship cruising through the Panama Canal!

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Westbound

Tauck's Panama Canal cruise and Costa Rica tour begins at InterContinental Miramar Panama at 6:30 PM. Welcome to Panama! A transfer awaits to take you from Tocumen International Airport to the InterContinental Miramar Panama hotel on the shores of the Pacific Ocean and Panama Bay. Meet your Tauck Director and your fellow travelers at our welcome reception and dinner this evening to share your excitement about your upcoming Panama Canal cruise.

Lodging

InterContinental Miramar Panama

Day2

Panama City and Gamboa Rainforest

Meals

B, L, D

Today, after a morning of Panama City sightseeing and lunch overlooking the Panama Canal, head to the Gamboa Rainforest Resort. Choose between gliding through the rainforest on an aerial tram – eye-level with exotic birds – or cruise local waterways to see playful monkeys in their natural habitat. You'll also embark on a walking tour of cobblestoned Casco Viejo – the historic sector of modern-day Panama City, featuring Spanish-style courtyards, tiles and cafés that have made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site – before returning to your hotel for dinner at leisure tonight.

Lodging

InterContinental Miramar Panama

Day3

Canal Zone sights, then embark m/v Tere Moana

Meals

B, L, D

Today, explore Canal Zone neighborhoods including Ancon Hill, site of the former U.S. command center and now a residential enclave where wildlife still thrives within an urban setting. Get a look at the workings of the canal at the Miraflores Locks Visitors Center, and check out the new Panama Canal Expansion Observation Center and the Gatun Locks. In the late afternoon, board m/v Tere Moana in the port city of Colón for the start of your cruise.

Lodging

Aboard m/v Tere Moana

Day4

A day in the San Blas Islands

Meals

B, L, D

Drop anchor at one of the 365 islets along the Panama coast for a day in paradise! Go ashore on one of the few inhabited San Blas Islands where you will get an authentic glimpse of daily life here in this remote archipelago. Your visit to a local Guna village includes an inside look at a private home and a chance to watch artisans create the beautiful embroidered molas you will see adorning fabrics here. Later, re-anchor near a Holandes Cayes beach, for idyllic swimming, snorkeling or relaxing; return to the ship for the Captain’s dinner as you sail towards the Panama Canal tonight.

Lodging

Aboard m/v Tere Moana

Day5

Your full transit through The Panama Canal

Meals

B, L, D

Appreciate one of the world’s engineering marvels during your Panama Canal cruise asm/v Tere Moana makes a full transit of the remarkable canal from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean. The ship will rise an astonishing 85 feet as she travels from the Gatún Locks at one end of the canal to the Miraflores Locks at the other. Gatún Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world; what appear to be islands are actually the tops of former jungle hills. Be sure to wander up to the top of the ship for unobstructed views, a great advantage of Tauck's small ship cruise. Although clearance for transit by daylight cannot be guaranteed, the passage, enhanced by commentary from a local guide, will be a highlight any time of day.

Lodging

Aboard m/v Tere Moana

Day6

A village in the Darien Province

Meals

B, L, D

Today, you'll have an experience that you just wouldn't get if you were traveling on your own. You'll feel like you've done some time traveling when you step ashore at Playa de Muerto, an astoundingly beautiful spot in a remote area of the Darien Province of Panama seldom visited by "outsiders." Traveling by zodiac, visit an Embera Indian community living in the pristine jungle in ways seemingly unchanged from those of their ancestors; watch traditional dancing which mimics the movements of the birds and animals that inhabit the rainforest, and see skilled carvings made of tagua vegetable ivory and cocobolo wood. Your ship continues on to Granito de Oro.

Lodging

Aboard m/v Tere Moana

Day7

Island beaches at Granito de Oro and Coiba Island

Meals

B, L, D

m/v Tere Moana anchors off lovely Granito de Oro near unspoiled Coiba Island National Park – an archipelago of 38 islands that was once a penal colony, but is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that remains pristine and virtually untouched by visitors – to offer you a day of sun, sea and sand. Land on a secluded white-sand beach via Zodiac to swim, snorkel or kayak* in the crystal-clear waters where you may get a glimpse of underwater life not usually associated with the Americas; enjoy a special barbecue lunch on the beach.

Lodging

Aboard m/v Tere Moana

Day8

Become one with nature on the Osa Peninsula

Meals

B, L, D

Cast anchor at Punta Marenco on the Osa Peninsula today to go exploring with a naturalist guide who takes you hiking in the lush landscapes of Punta Rio Claro National Wildlife Refuge, and points out the diverse ecosystems and bird life that thrive here; National Geographic has described the Osa Peninsula as “the most biologically intense place on Earth.” Take a refreshing afternoon swim before returning to the ship; join us for the Captain's farewell dinner tonight.

Lodging

Aboard m/v Tere Moana

Day9

Ox carts in Sarchi and gold in San José

Meals

B, L

As your Panama Canal cruise ends in Puerto Caldera, bid farewell tom/v Tere Moana and set off to discover Costa Rica’s fascinating interior en route to the capital city of San José. Visit the artisan village of Sarchi, known for the production and painting of the traditional ox carts (carretas) and other handmade products seen all over the country, bearing the colorful starburst designs that have become a symbol of Costa Rica. Arrive in San José, where a city sightseeing tour includes visits to the Baroque-style 19th-century National Theater and the Gold Museum, showcasing pre-Columbian gold artifacts. Your accommodations for the next two nights are located in an elite suburb just outside of San José.

Lodging

Real InterContinental Hotel & Club Tower Costa Rica

Day10

Luscious Costa Rica... coffee and a rainforest

Meals

B, L, D

Thanks to near-perfect growing conditions, coffee is one of Costa Rica’s most important exports. Visit a coffee plantation where your guide will explain how the beans are produced and roasted and how different microclimates affect the taste. Tour a rainforest eco-park that is known for its majestically tall waterfalls and as a protected reserve for toucans, spider monkeys, red-eyed leaf frogs and jaguars – to name a few of the more than 100 resident species; you'll have a chance to see beautiful Quetzals and other native birdlife up close. Cap your memorable Panama Canal cruise and Costa Rica tour at our farewell reception and dinner this evening.

Note: This cruise feature two types of landings on the islands. Dry Landings occur when guests step from the Zodiac-style rafts on to rocks or a dock. Wet Landings occur when the raft edges onto a sandy beach and guests step into knee-deep water and wade ashore.

Note: Activities marked with an asterisk (*) are at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required

Travel East or West: Cruise
operates Eastbound from San José and Westbound from Panama City.
Sightseeing is identical. Eastbound itinerary is available at
www.tauck.com or on request.

Note: Costa Rica departure tax on Westbound departures is not included. Daily shore excursions will include wet and dry landings on diverse islands. Wet landings will be made by Zodiac-style rafts on sandy or rocky beaches and may require wading ashore in shallow water.

Note: Activities marked with an asterisk (*) are at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

Tauck Value Includes

All gratuities to Tauck Directors, local guides, naturalists and ship staff

6-night cruise on m/v Tere Moana with a maximum of 90 guests onboard

Full small-ship transit of the Panama Canal with onboard commentary by a local expert; view passage from Sun Deck

2-night stay in San José and 2-night stay Panama City with in-depth guided sightseeing

Experienced naturalists and our own Tauck Directors join the
cruise aboard ship, leading each excursion ashore to enrich your
experience of the jungle, water and flora & fauna

A visit to a remote jungle village in Panama’s Darien Province –
not accessible on your own – to see ways of life and traditions of a
people far removed from modern-day city life

Air Travel & Services

Let Tauck reserve your flights

Traveling with Tauck ensures more than a memorable travel experience; it also enables you to take advantage of additional “do it for you” travel services that take the hassle out of arranging them yourself! As an added service, we can make flight arrangements for your journey, if your travels originate in the United States, offering you a number of welcome advantages. With Tauck, you can:

Reserve your flights now; pay later when tickets are issued

Benefit from Tauck’s lenient change and refund policies

Earn Frequent Flyer mileage on most airlines

What's more, if you purchase Tauck's Cruise Protection, you'll receive a refund should you need to cancel your flights due to covered reasons. Another great reason to buy your air from Tauck!

Overnight Accommodations

Nights 1 - 2
:
InterContinental Miramar Panama
-
Panama City, Panama

Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!

The InterContinental Miramar Panama is beautifully set on the shores of Panama Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Welcoming guest rooms offer a minibar, electronic safe, TV with local and international networks, iron and ironing board and amenities such as bathrobes and the finest shampoos, lotions and bath gels. Leisure facilities include a lighted tennis court and an outdoor swimming pool with a great view of Panama Bay. Enjoy a nightcap while you listen to live music in the Sparkles Bar.

Nights 3 - 8
:
Aboard m/v Tere Moana
-
coastal waters

Newly renovated and re-christened in 2012, m/v Tere Moana sets a new standard in small-ship cruising with her elegant yet casual ambiance, luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, trademark Polynesian hospitality, and extraordinary all-inclusive value. Your own "private yacht," she carries a maximum of only 90 passengers and a dedicated crew of 60 – personalized cruising that is reminiscent of cruising with friends. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll feel like you're coming home to family. The ship's 45 oceanview staterooms, 8 of which offer private balconies, feature a king-size bed donned with fine linens and feather-down duvet; a flatscreen TV; DVD/CD player; iPod docking station; in-stateroom refrigerator replenished daily with soft drinks, beer, and bottled water; robes and slippers; spacious closets; and a bathroom with sumptuous bath products. Public areas on her five decks include two elegant dining venues offering regionally infused cuisine featuring fresh ingredients from destinations visited; Le Salon, featuring live piano music in the evening; the Deep Nature Spa by Algotherm; a fitness center equipped with the latest cardio and weightlifting equipment; and La Boutique, offering jewelry, apparel, sundries and souvenirs. Tere Moana's outdoor decks feature a swimming pool, hot tub, chaise lounges and Balinese beds; in select ports, kayaking and paddleboarding are available from the ship's watersports marina.

Located in the elite San José suburb of Escazú, the Real InterContinental & Club Tower Costa Rica is the epitome of modern, understated elegance. Spacious guest rooms feature luxury bedding, individually controlled air conditioning, iron / ironing board, 37-inch LCD TV with cable and satellite stations, radio with CD player, coffee maker, minibar, bathrobes, hair dryer and a scale. There’s a cool outdoor swimming pool complex, tennis court, the largest Urban Spa of Central America and a fully equipped, state-of-the-art Health & Fitness Centre. You’ll find three restaurants from which to choose. If you’re in the mood for an exotic aperitif, sample one of the 50 sake cocktails at the Nau Bar.

Extend Your Trip

Many Tauck travelers prefer arriving at their destination a day before
their Tauck journey begins, or often extend a stay at the end of their
trip. As a service, Tauck will make hotel reservations before and after
your journey.

Arrive Early:
InterContinental Miramar Panama
- Panama City, Panama

The InterContinental Miramar Panama is beautifully set on the shores of Panama Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Welcoming guest rooms offer a minibar, electronic safe, TV with local and international networks, iron and ironing board and amenities such as bathrobes and the finest shampoos, lotions and bath gels. Leisure facilities include a lighted tennis court and an outdoor swimming pool with a great view of Panama Bay. Enjoy a nightcap while you listen to live music in the Sparkles Bar.

Located in the elite San José suburb of Escazú, the Real InterContinental & Club Tower Costa Rica is the epitome of modern, understated elegance. Spacious guest rooms feature luxury bedding, individually controlled air conditioning, iron / ironing board, 37-inch LCD TV with cable and satellite stations, radio with CD player, coffee maker, minibar, bathrobes, hair dryer and a scale. There’s a cool outdoor swimming pool complex, tennis court, the largest Urban Spa of Central America and a fully equipped, state-of-the-art Health & Fitness Centre. You’ll find three restaurants from which to choose. If you’re in the mood for an exotic aperitif, sample one of the 50 sake cocktails at the Nau Bar.

Before You Go

There are bound to be questions when travelling. Information on everything from weather to internet connections can be found below.

Inclusive Prices

Cruise Prices

Cruise prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel and cruise ship accommodations, motor coach transportation, port charges, land excursions, admissions, entertainment, sightseeing, special dinners, porterage, and the services of the Tauck Directors, hotel and ship staff, and local guides and drivers are included. Bar & restaurant beverages are included throughout the day aboard ship, including house wine & spirits. Transportation from Tocumen International Airport (located just outside of Panama City) to the InterContinental Miramar Panama in Panama City is included regardless of the time you check in to the hotel, provided we have accurate flight arrival information at least three weeks before the start of the your tour. Transportation from the Real InterContinental Hotel & Club Tower Costa Rica to San José Juan Santamaría International Airport is also included when you check out of the hotel. Transportation to and from airports may be shared with other Tauck guests.

Hotel Accommodations

The cruise price includes all hotel and cruise ship accommodations. Our standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality of accommodations may differ slightly from one hotel to another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triples are usually two-bedded rooms plus a rollaway cot and are not recommended for comfort.

Your cruise ship accommodates fewer guests than large ocean-going vessels. Your well-appointed cabin includes these amenities: television with DVD player, mini-bar, international direct-dial telephone, safe and hair dryer. On board m/v Tere Moana, staterooms are furnished with two twin beds which may be requested in advance to be placed together to form a queen-size bed. Each room has a private bath with an enclosed shower (no tub).Other ship facilities include the following: elevator, bar, lounge, restaurant, sun deck, spa, pool, hot tub, library, and fitness center.

Meals

Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary.

On board m/v Tere Moana, breakfast and lunch are served in the restaurant on the fifth deck; dinner is served in the more formal restaurant on the third deck. International cuisine is featured and complimentary wine is offered with dinner. Both restaurants accommodate all guests in one seating. Complimentary soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, coffee and tea service are available throughout the day. The legal drinking age aboard the cruise ship is 21.

Tauck Director

The Panama Canal & Costa Rica tour is conducted by one Tauck Director for every 40 Tauck guests (with a maximum total of 90 guests) who remains with the group throughout the tour. Your Tauck Directors are professional, fully trained employees of Tauck.

Gratuities Included

All appropriate gratuities for Tauck Directors, restaurant, hotel and ship staff, local guides and drivers are included.

Luggage Handling and Restrictions

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

No Options Sold

Your Tauck Directors will assist with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance, but they will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.

Travel Documents Required

If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Panama and Costa Rica. You will not need a visa for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

If you are a citizen of another country, you should contact a consulate or embassy of Panama and Costa Rica to determine what travel documentation is required.

You will be issued a boarding card, which you must present before embarking the ship in each port. This security measure also ensures that only Tauck guests are permitted onboard.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

Not Included

Transportation

Transportation to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included.

Hotel Rooms Before and After Tours

To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your cruise. As a service, we will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through us. Hotel room charges will be added to the cruise cost. Airport transfers are included for these extended stays as described above under Inclusive Prices. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult Extend Your Trip in the Accommodations section above on this webpage and discuss it with your reservations sales consultant or your travel agent when you book your cruise.

Luggage Responsibility

Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section below on this webpage for more information.

Lost luggage is an unfortunate possibility in today's world of airline travel. We suggest that you:

Do not pack any vital medications or valuables in your checked luggage

Confirm that your luggage is checked and tagged to your final destination at airport check-in

Place your luggage claim tags in a secure place for your flight

File a claim for any missing luggage immediately before leaving the baggage claim area

Secure a case number and contact information for follow-up communications

Make certain that the airline has your onward itinerary

Your Tauck Director will assist you with airline and other carrier communications, but has no inside contacts to guarantee or expedite recovery of lost luggage. All recovery costs, including the communication costs, are your responsibility. Check your travel protection details for covered expenses.

Personal Expenses

Personal Expenses such as phone calls, room service in hotels, alcoholic and other beverages not specifically included, laundry, dry cleaning, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, airport arrival and departure taxes, individual airport transfers (when applicable), and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.

When departing from Costa Rica on an international flight, you will be required to pay a departure tax. The departure tax may be purchased at the Real InterContinental for a small fee, which will permit you to avoid the line at the airport. Although you can pay the airport departure tax with a credit card, it is charged as a cash advance. Most credit card companies charge a high fee for this type of transaction and begin charging interest on it immediately. It is best to pay the airport tax in cash, either US dollars or CR colones.

Preparing to Go

Journey Start and End Times

Journey start and end times are provided at time of booking. The tour begins with your transfer from Tocumen International Airport to the InterContinental Miramar in Panama City on the first day of the tour where the tour starts at 6:30 PM. You or your booking agent will be advised of any change to this schedule. When making flight arrangements, please allow sufficient time to claim luggage and clear customs in order to join the cruise on time. We will provide transportation from the Real InterContinental Hotel and Club Tower Costa Rica to the San José Juan Santamaría International Airport on the day of your departure; your tour ends at the Real InterContinental Hotel & Club Tower Costa Rica. Each carrier and each airport has different rules regarding how early you must arrive for flight check in. Please contact your individual carrier for this information.

Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility

We pledge to make every effort to operate all cruises as advertised. We reserve the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by us. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecast at the time of publication.

Holiday and Museum Closures

Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many state, religious and civic holidays locally observed. You may wish to log on to Wikipedia to view a list of holidays by country by clicking here.

Photography On Tour

Occasionally, we will use photographs and/or video taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for print, Internet and other promotional purposes. If you prefer that your image not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.

Membership

Membership will be granted to all persons. We reserve the right to terminate the tour of any person who is abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.

ATM and Credit Cards

We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing on this cruise to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be "suspicious" charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back sides of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.

Cell Phone Usage

We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that you refrain from using your cell phone while on the motor coach, during group functions, when sightseeing and when your Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There will be many opportunities to make and receive calls at times when it does not affect others.

Health and Activity

To enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven, rocky and sandy terrain, as our activities include visiting national parks, biological reserves, rainforests and rustic villages. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. Additionally, you must be steady and balanced aboard ship while you cruise the shores of Panama and Costa Rica. Some ship to shore transportation is by Zodiac (capacity 20 persons) and involves ‘wet landings’, which requires wading through shallow surf to reach shore. Occasionally you may get wet with spray.
m/v Tere Moana has an elevator that connects all decks except the sun deck.
m/v Tere Moana has a licensed and registered physician on board for professional and emergency services, which are available at customary charges. The ships' small infirmary is designed to provide medical care for certain temporary illnesses and accidents, and is not intended or capable of providing on-going treatment of preexisting medical conditions. If you require oxygen equipment, please notify Tauck so that special arrangements can be made.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we’re unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

On board the ship, only the marina area of deck 3 has been designated as a smoking area. There is no smoking permitted in the interior of the ship.

m/v Tere Moana is registered in the Bahamas. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Some of the countries visited on this itinerary may require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter the country. These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside in different areas, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.

For the most current information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here. You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting. Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren’t required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.

Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site. It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.

Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective. Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).

Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations.

If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided.

Airline Disinsection

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a guidance letter that requires airlines and travel agents to disclose to consumers countries that require the use of insecticides by airlines. Please click here for more information.

Additional Information

Cruise Regulations

International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the ship, your passport will be held by the purser until you disembark.

Travel With Children

Age Recommendations ― Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, we have a minimum recommended age for each journey to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.

Babysitting ― Our journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. If you require babysitting services, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer on-site babysitting services; however, babysitting services may not be available at all of our hotels.

There are no babysitting services available on the cruise ship. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility ― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety during the cruise. By traveling with us, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for ChildrenAuthorization for Travel

If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a notarized note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.

If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (parent deceased, sole custody, etc.), other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, or a death certificate, will be useful.

Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, we require you to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information may be obtained from a country’s consulate or embassy.
Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment

In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child’s parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents (including other pertinent documents as cited above) authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.

Children who are U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the journey.

We are not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by the improper documentation of any guest, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.

Airline Security Measures

If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver’s license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.

If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.

For more information on the TSA's requirements, please visit their website by clicking here.

If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S., you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.

Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.

What to Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we’ve partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site.

This is a casual tour; bring comfortable cotton shorts, pants and tops. Dress
aboard the m/v Tere Moana is relaxed, and shorts and t-shirts are appropriate
during the day. Attire in the evening is generally country club casual.
Although a jacket and tie are not required for the welcome and farewell dinners,
many of our guests like to dress up a bit for these events.

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support are a must, and also important for
this journey are reef shoes, aqua socks, Teva sandals or an old pair of sneakers
for beach landings because your feet will get wet. Due to tropical conditions
you will also need to bring a rain poncho or jacket. Don't forget a swimsuit,
and a t-shirt to wear over your swimsuit when snorkeling. Snorkeling equipment
is provided free of charge, or you may bring your own.

For higher elevations and cool, breezy nights at sea, bring a windbreaker,
sweater, or light jacket. Please also note that sundries, toiletries, and
medications are difficult to obtain during this itinerary.

Consider packing a number of garments you can wear in different combinations
over four or five days. Laundry services are available on board m/v Tere Moana.

Beyond your normal wardrobe and personal grooming items, we suggest you also
bring along:
-Comfortable walking shoes (VERY IMPORTANT!)
-Reef shoes, Teva sandals, Aqua socks, or an old pair of sneakers
-Rainwear, such as a raincoat and rain hat, plus a collapsible umbrella
-Short and long-sleeved shirts/tee shirts (extra tee shirts are always a
good idea)
-Shorts and pants for casual daytime wear
-Sport jacket for men (not required) and slacks/dress for women for evening
wear
-Lightweight sweater
-Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards or plenty of film
-Swimwear
-Sunglasses
-Sunscreen and hat (baseball caps are recommended)
-Small flashlight
-Insect repellent
-Pre-moistened towelettes and/or antibacterial lotion
-Backpack for your photographic equipment or other belongings during ship-to-
shore transfers
-Plastic zip-lock bags to protect cameras and other valuables during ship-to-
shore transfers
-Binoculars
-Travel alarm clock (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
-Prescription medicines (an adequate supply to last your journey), and written
copies of your prescriptions from your doctor. While it may be possible to
refill prescriptions during your journey, the availability of refills cannot
be guaranteed. What's more, refilling prescriptions in foreign countries can
be difficult and time-consuming.

We recommend that you pack any prescription medicines (an adequate supply for
your entire journey) along with your travel documents and a change of clothing
in your carry-on bag, in order to minimize any inconvenience should your luggage
be lost or delayed. We also recommend, for your peace of mind and personal
security, that all expensive jewelry and other valuables be left at home.

Upon Arrival...

Air Conditioning

The hotel rooms, ship staterooms and motor coaches are air-conditioned for your comfort.

Currency and Exchange Rates

The currency in Panama is the U.S. dollar and in Costa Rica, the Colón; however, the U.S. dollar is widely accepted in Costa Rica by hotels and merchants.

On board m/v Tere Moana, personal shipboard accounts may be settled by U.S. dollars, American Express, Visa, MasterCard or traveler's checks. There is no foreign exchange facility on the ship.

To obtain the most current exchange rates for all national currencies, you may want to check oanda.com by clicking here.

Customs and Tax-Free Shopping

Each country we visit has its own customs clearing process. You should familiarize yourself with the specific required declarations of Panama and Costa Rica before you travel. In general, you are not permitted to bring live plants, fresh fruits and other produce items into most countries. You may find additional information by visiting VisaHQ.com by clicking here.

If you are a U.S. resident who will be returning to the U.S. at the end of the tour,you are entitled to a duty-free exemption based on the total value of merchandise purchase abroad, as long as you physically bring them with you. There are limits to the amount of alcohol that can be a part of this exemption. Certain restrictions apply to unaccompanied goods mailed from abroad to the U.S. Please call your local customs office or consult the U.S. government's customs regulations as contained in their publication entitled Know Before You Go.

If you are a resident of another country, please refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.

Many countries levy Value Added Taxes (VAT) on consumer goods and services. (The tax rate may be higher for luxury items and lower for basic goods.) As a rule, if you are not a resident of the country (or of the country’s intergovernmental economic community, e.g., the European Union) in which the purchase is made, you may be entitled to a VAT refund and should inquire about the refund policy where you shop.

Electrical Current

In Panama and Costa Rica, electric power is provided at 110 V, 60 Hz, which is the same as that provided in the U.S. On board m/v Tere Moana, all hotel rooms and staterooms are equipped with both 220 V, 50 Hz, AC that requires European-style two round-pronged plugs and 110 V, 60 Hz found in the U.S.

Internet Access

Complimentary basic Internet where available in hotel rooms; service levels are not guaranteed. Wireless access available throughout the ship; please note that it can be intermittent.

Time Zones

Panama is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time); Costa Rica is 6 hours behind. To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to timeanddate.com by clicking here.

Elevation

The maximum overnight elevation on this tour is 3,760 ft (1,146 m). The maximum overland elevation is 5,250 ft (1,600 m) en route to La Paz Waterfall Gardens in Costa Rica. Most time is spent at sea level.

Weather

Although warm and humid, the climate along our route is moderately comfortable. From January through March, the weather is at its best; humidity is low and rainfall is minimal. Average high temperatures range from 75 to 80 °F (24 to 27 °C) in Costa Rica's Central Valley to 85 to 90 °F (29 to 32 °C) along the coast and in Panama.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.

Average Temperature

San José, Costa Rica

Colón, Panama

Month

Hi/Lo ºF

Hi/Lo ºC

Hi/Lo ºF

Hi/Lo ºC

January

75 / 58

24 / 14

83 / 79

28 / 26

February

76 / 58

24 / 14

83 / 79

28 / 26

March

79 / 59

26 / 15

84 / 79

29 / 26

April

79 / 62

26 / 17

85 / 79

29 / 26

May

80 / 62

27 / 17

86 / 80

30 / 27

June

79 / 62

26 / 17

86 / 80

30 / 27

July

77 / 62

25 / 17

85 / 80

29 / 27

August

78 / 61

26 / 16

86 / 80

30 / 27

September

79 / 61

26 / 16

87 / 79

31 / 26

October

77 / 60

25 / 16

86 / 79

30 / 26

November

77 / 60

25 / 16

85 / 79

29 / 26

December

75 / 58

24 / 14

84 / 79

29 / 26

Panama City, Panama

Month

Hi/Lo ºF

Hi/Lo ºC

January

87 / 77

31 / 25

February

87 / 77

31 / 25

March

87 / 77

31 / 25

April

87 / 78

31 / 26

May

88 / 79

31 / 26

June

88 / 79

31 / 26

July

88 / 79

31 / 26

August

88 / 78

31 / 26

September

87 / 78

31 / 26

October

87 / 78

31 / 26

November

87 / 77

31 / 25

December

87 / 76

31 / 24

Average Rainfall

San José, Costa Rica

Colón, Panama

Month

Inches

Millimeters

Inches

Millimeters

January

0.6

15

1.3

34

February

0.2

5

0.7

17

March

0.8

20

0.3

6

April

1.8

46

0.4

11

May

9.0

229

2.7

68

June

9.5

241

3.8

96

July

8.3

211

3.7

93

August

9.5

241

4.6

116

September

12.0

305

4.0

101

October

11.8

300

6.2

158

November

5.7

145

4.9

123

December

1.6

41

2.9

73

Panama City, Panama

Month

Inches

Millimeters

January

0.0

1

February

0.0

0

March

0.0

1

April

0.3

7

May

2.4

61

June

2.7

67

July

3.0

77

August

2.6

67

September

4.1

103

October

5.2

131

November

3.6

91

December

1.2

91

Book This Trip

Have Information Ready

To help expedite your booking, please have the following information ready before you call us:

Tour Name and Departure Date Desired

Traveler Name(s): Please have first and last names as they appear on the passport or driver’s license.

Traveler’s Address(es)

Traveler’s Phone Number(s)

Emergency Contact Information: This would be a relative or friend whom we could contact during the tour in the event of an emergency. Please provide their name and phone number(s).

Interest in purchasing Tauck’s Travel Protection Product (see below).

Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends

Interest in our specially negotiated airfares.

For Reservations Call

For reservations, call 800-788-7885 or contact your travel agent to book today!

Deposit Date

Deposit DateUpon your request, we will hold space tentatively for you and give a “Deposit Due Date,” by which a deposit must be received or space is automatically released. Your deposit is $1,100 per person.

Special Requests

Special RequestsWe will be happy to advise hotels of any special requests, provided we receive them at time of booking. We regret that requests cannot be guaranteed.

Final Payment

Final Payment is due at Tauck’s Norwalk, CT office 60 days before departure. Any bookingswithout full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice.

Final Documents

Final Documents, which may include airline tickets, when applicable, are sent by first class mail upon receipt of final payment. They include joining instructions, hotel lists, tour itinerary, clothing suggestions, luggage tags and other pertinent information. We recommend overnight mailing service for any reservation that is made within 30 days of the tour departure date to ensure timely delivery. The additional expense will be added to your tour cost.

Tauck Travel Protection Product / If You Have To Cancel

Tauck’s Cruise Protection

Guests booking a Tauck cruise have the option of purchasing cancellation protection from Tauck in the event they need to cancel their cruise after booking. Tauck's Travel Protection is available to all travelers, with the exception of residents of Puerto Rico.

Under Tauck’s all-inclusive Cruise Protection, you can cancel your cruise for any covered reason up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the cruise cost, based on your original method of payment. The following conditions apply:

Section I Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck: Should you have to cancel your cruise for any reason, Tauck’s Cancellation Waiver reduces the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

Section II – Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company. Should you have to cancel your trip due to illness, injury, death or other covered reason, any cancellation or airline penalties not refunded by Tauck under Section I’s Cancellation Waiver would be reimbursable under Section II. This Protection also provides 24-hour emergency assistance services as well as:

Trip Delay – Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.

Medical Expense – Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip.

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your cruise reservation. Cruise Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Cost is not refundable under any circumstances. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

If You Have To Cancel

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. Therefore, the fees listed will apply.

60 days or more before departureLoss of cost of Tauck’s Cruise Protection ($560.00)

59-30 days before departureLoss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise Protection fee, per person

29-1 days before departureLoss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise Protection fee, per person

Guests choosing not to purchase Tauck’s Cruise Protection will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:

60 days or more before departure$1100.00 per person

59-30 days before departureLoss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person

29-1 days before departureLoss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein.

Cruise Interruption Fees – If you have to interrupt your cruise en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation – A person who cancels or leaves a cruise while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another. The price charged the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

Air Services

Airfare may be purchased through us for travel originating in the United States. By using our air services, you agree that we, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, are acting only as your agent and are not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by us. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline only, even if purchased through us. We are not liable for, and do not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors). We must handle ticketing for our special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Our air services can only be purchased in conjunction with one of our tours. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air booking before or after departure, all airline cancellation and change fees will apply.

Deck Plans

Sleek and yacht-like with an elegant yet casual ambiance, luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, Polynesian hospitality and all-inclusive value, the newly renovated m/v Tere Moana is ideally suited for cruising the Panama Canal. With just 90 passengers and a dedicated crew of 60, she offers personalized cruising that is reminiscent of sailing with friends... where you'll feel like you're coming home to family.

Traveler Reviews - The Panama Canal & Costa Rica - Westbound

Everything was taken care of from start to finish. Never had to think about more then what kind of shoes you were going to wear for the day.

Most Memorable Moment:

Exploring the native Island along the way.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

craignjennifer

Christopher Columbus Adventure

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Everything was taken care of from start to finish. Never had to think about more then what kind of shoes you were going to wear for the day.

Most Memorable Moment:

Exploring the native Island along the way.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

gwesthoff

Costa Rica - Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

The trip was well organized - as usual by Tauck - Rick & Steve were the best tour guides we have had with Tauck. The naturalists were also very good and well prepared. The food was not nearly up to Tauck's standards. Our free night dinner was bad and last night food was very bad. The ship's gift shop lacked daily necessities like aspirin etc.

Most Memorable Moment:

The Panama Canal was the highlight of the trip. The second day at the canal was great since we had to go thru at night. Costa Rica was beautiful and enjoyed our tours there more than Panama. The naturalists made the trip very good.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We are very pleased you enjoyed your overall journey but disappointed that some aspects fell below expectatons. Your comments will be looked into immediataly and any and all corrective actions will be taken. Once again thank you for your patronage and we hope you will travel with us again.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

gwesthoff

Costa Rica - Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

The trip was well organized - as usual by Tauck - Rick & Steve were the best tour guides we have had with Tauck. The naturalists were also very good and well prepared. The food was not nearly up to Tauck's standards. Our free night dinner was bad and last night food was very bad. The ship's gift shop lacked daily necessities like aspirin etc.

Most Memorable Moment:

The Panama Canal was the highlight of the trip. The second day at the canal was great since we had to go thru at night. Costa Rica was beautiful and enjoyed our tours there more than Panama. The naturalists made the trip very good.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We are very pleased you enjoyed your overall journey but disappointed that some aspects fell below expectatons. Your comments will be looked into immediataly and any and all corrective actions will be taken. Once again thank you for your patronage and we hope you will travel with us again.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

mattandme

Costa Rica/Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Steve and Rick were wonderful and the guides were a wealth of information. We had some problems with very strong currents on our snorkel day through no fault of Tauck, but a disappointment for me. There was one outdoor restaurant that could have been better, but overall, I loved the food on the ship and the unusual experiences we were able to have.

Most Memorable Moment:

I really enjoyed the rain forest experience and swimming in the river.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

mattandme

Costa Rica/Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Steve and Rick were wonderful and the guides were a wealth of information. We had some problems with very strong currents on our snorkel day through no fault of Tauck, but a disappointment for me. There was one outdoor restaurant that could have been better, but overall, I loved the food on the ship and the unusual experiences we were able to have.

Most Memorable Moment:

I really enjoyed the rain forest experience and swimming in the river.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

busylady

Small ship Costa Rica/Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

We had the trip of our lifetime and we have done many. Everyone was very professional and helpful. Friendliness was abound. The knowledge was from everyone was unbelievable. Everything was spic and span and food very good. Accommodation on ship and land was exceptional and your tour directors [Employee Name] and Steve [Employee Name] were Unbelievable Men.

Most Memorable Moment:

Darien Island and all the wonderful Natives.But of course the PanamaCanal was spectacular. All in all everything we saw was a most memorable moment. Including the dancing with your Chief engineer.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

busylady

Small ship Costa Rica/Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

We had the trip of our lifetime and we have done many. Everyone was very professional and helpful. Friendliness was abound. The knowledge was from everyone was unbelievable. Everything was spic and span and food very good. Accommodation on ship and land was exceptional and your tour directors [Employee Name] and Steve [Employee Name] were Unbelievable Men.

Most Memorable Moment:

Darien Island and all the wonderful Natives.But of course the PanamaCanal was spectacular. All in all everything we saw was a most memorable moment. Including the dancing with your Chief engineer.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Eliot

Costa Rica and Panama Canal Eastbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Trip was excellent, well planned ,educational and fun.
Only criticism is over Tauck's choice of air flights which involved a stop over and plane change in Miami.This was not necessary since direct non stop flights were likely available from Newark Liberty Airport.

Most Memorable Moment:

Going through Panama Canal in the evening and night followed by seeing ships going through during the day.
Also our visit to the Embera people was fantastic.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you for taking the time to share your comments with us. We are so pleased you ejoyed your trip and experienced some truly memorable moments. We are sorry that you were disappointed with your flight schedule and we will certainly provide your feedback to our Airline Department for review. Once again thank you for your patronage and we do hope you will travel with us again.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

Eliot

Costa Rica and Panama Canal Eastbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Trip was excellent, well planned ,educational and fun.
Only criticism is over Tauck's choice of air flights which involved a stop over and plane change in Miami.This was not necessary since direct non stop flights were likely available from Newark Liberty Airport.

Most Memorable Moment:

Going through Panama Canal in the evening and night followed by seeing ships going through during the day.
Also our visit to the Embera people was fantastic.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you for taking the time to share your comments with us. We are so pleased you ejoyed your trip and experienced some truly memorable moments. We are sorry that you were disappointed with your flight schedule and we will certainly provide your feedback to our Airline Department for review. Once again thank you for your patronage and we do hope you will travel with us again.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

John Tysell

Panama Canal & Costa Rica

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

first class experience.
access to off the beaten track places.
small ship cruising is great.
all inclusive pricing including ALL tips.
the naturalists were friendly and informative especially Hernan.
the only disappointment was going thru the canal at night

Most Memorable Moment:

"wet landings" on secluded beaches for snorkeling and meeting indigenous people

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

millerjcat0418

Great way to see the canal!!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Outstanding trip overall and very pleased to have chosen it. The Tauck directors and naturalists were excellent. I definitely enjoyed being on the ship more than the land portion. Very luxurious and comfortable accommodations.

Most Memorable Moment:

The surprise at the farewell dinner in Panama City.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

millerjcat0418

Great way to see the canal!!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Outstanding trip overall and very pleased to have chosen it. The Tauck directors and naturalists were excellent. I definitely enjoyed being on the ship more than the land portion. Very luxurious and comfortable accommodations.

Most Memorable Moment:

The surprise at the farewell dinner in Panama City.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

RalphScognamiglio

Panama Canal & Costa Rica January 26th-February 5th 2015

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Elise & Tim are the Dynamic Duo of Tour Directors.
Tim & Elise are by far the most professional team I have come across in the travel industry.
Always present and available to us throughout our tour.
One example of their ever-presence was: engaging passengers throughout our crossing of the Panama Canal, through the Miraflores locks at 2:30am.

Most Memorable Moment:

We will never forget landing on a Darien beach and being greeted by the Emberá people.
The smiles and laughter of the children playing will stay in our hearts forever.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

bhmove2

More than just a cruise

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Our experience on this trip way exceeded our expectations. Tauck has chosen an exceptional ship operator, Paul Gaugain, for this trip and their crew could not have performed at a higher level.
The trip directors as well as the 4 Naturalists were also outstanding, esp the 2 from Panama.
And for us, it's the people that make the trip.

Most Memorable Moment:

The snorkeling experience on Granita de Oro, a tiny island, so small it was not on my map. The Paul Gaugain's crew outfitted this dot of sand with umbrellas, towels, a bar and an ice cream stand!There is nothing on this island at all except a beautiful sandy beach and a lovely snorkeling reef. When we were there, it looked like a Hawaiian resort.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

peteranm

The Panama Canal with Costa Rica and Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

The big highlight was the transit through the canal. The second highlights were visiting indigenous villages so that we were a part of them and celebrating with them, not tourists. We also enjoyed the warm water, sandy beaches, and treks through the rainforest.

Most Memorable Moment:

Visiting the Embera village.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

peteranm

The Panama Canal with Costa Rica and Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

The big highlight was the transit through the canal. The second highlights were visiting indigenous villages so that we were a part of them and celebrating with them, not tourists. We also enjoyed the warm water, sandy beaches, and treks through the rainforest.

The landing and embarkation on Zodiacs on Embara Beach, Panama. Mucho Realisma aventura!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Macias

Costa Rica, Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Started in San Jose, Costa Rica, traveled eastbound thru the Panama Canal and ended in Panama City.
Snorkeled, visited villages and had the best 2 guides! Rick and Steve. They went over and beyond taking care of all of us! Even were up the last morning seeing us off and making sure the drivers were there to take us to the airport.

Most Memorable Moment:

Going thru the Panama Canal on the bridge of our ship!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Macias

Costa Rica, Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Started in San Jose, Costa Rica, traveled eastbound thru the Panama Canal and ended in Panama City.
Snorkeled, visited villages and had the best 2 guides! Rick and Steve. They went over and beyond taking care of all of us! Even were up the last morning seeing us off and making sure the drivers were there to take us to the airport.

Most Memorable Moment:

Going thru the Panama Canal on the bridge of our ship!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

KKayK

Panama Canal and Costa Rica Eastbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Our tour was a wonderful trip into discovering both the past & present of
both Panama and Costa Rica. It was a wonderful blend of land & ship. Traveling
with us were 2 oustanding Tauck Tour Guides and 4 very knowledgable Naturalists
that gave us a wonderful insight into our daily activities. Outstanding experience.

Most Memorable Moment:

Cruising through the Panama Canal while listening to a complete narration by a
Canal expert.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

KKayK

Panama Canal and Costa Rica Eastbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Our tour was a wonderful trip into discovering both the past & present of
both Panama and Costa Rica. It was a wonderful blend of land & ship. Traveling
with us were 2 oustanding Tauck Tour Guides and 4 very knowledgable Naturalists
that gave us a wonderful insight into our daily activities. Outstanding experience.

Most Memorable Moment:

Cruising through the Panama Canal while listening to a complete narration by a
Canal expert.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

ShekharK

Panama Canal East Bound Cruise

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Great Service. Some really great places of visit.

Most Memorable Moment:

Snorkeling at a remote island early in the morning with no one other than cruise passengers and crew around.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

ShekharK

Panama Canal East Bound Cruise

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Great Service. Some really great places of visit.

Most Memorable Moment:

Snorkeling at a remote island early in the morning with no one other than cruise passengers and crew around.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

cool

The Panama Canal and Costa Rica, Westbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Small ship cruising through the Panama Canal with grilled lobster and champagne, a visit to the remote tribe of Embera people, snorkeling, exploring islands, incredible history and compassionate lectures by our onboard naturalists, unbelievable food, entertainment, wet and dry landings with food and libation. Tim and Elise were fabulous!

Most Memorable Moment:

Roof top dining in Panama City.
The actual transit through the first lock in the Canal.
Our visit with the beautiful Embera people in the Darien.
The incredible food......preparation and presentation.
The impassioned lectures by naturalists, Rich and Hernan.
Our tour directors, Tim and Elise.......every detail covered.
Congeniality of guests.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Bmancini

Panama Canal and Costa Rica

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

It was a most enjoyable trip due to the Tauck directors: Elise and Tim [Employee Name]. I have been on 11 Tauck trips and these two by far were the best directors I have had. They worked so hard in making our trip fun and educational Going through the canal was interesting. My husband stayed up until 2:30 am to see the complete crossing.

Most Memorable Moment:

I very much enjoyed visiting Portobelo, Panama. We visited a Church and strolled the streets. And that evening while transiting the canal, we enjoyed a wonderful dinner on deck.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Bernie33

More than the Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

We took this trip to go through the Canal while wanting to avoid long cruises from Florida or California to get there. Learning about and experiencing the Canal was good, but there were so many other things on this trip that we wouldn't have known about that really made it memorable.

Most Memorable Moment:

Meeting the Embera, visiting Charlie of the Guna, the tram ride through and above the rainforest, meeting Julio and Laura on their island, the long walk to the river, the talks by the naturalists - especially Hernan's tales of his parents, and the Tere Moana.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Bernie33

More than the Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

We took this trip to go through the Canal while wanting to avoid long cruises from Florida or California to get there. Learning about and experiencing the Canal was good, but there were so many other things on this trip that we wouldn't have known about that really made it memorable.

Most Memorable Moment:

Meeting the Embera, visiting Charlie of the Guna, the tram ride through and above the rainforest, meeting Julio and Laura on their island, the long walk to the river, the talks by the naturalists - especially Hernan's tales of his parents, and the Tere Moana.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Tex46sam

Small ship cruise: Costa Rica and Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

Outstanding trip. Rick and Steve were extraordinary guides and our four naturalist were first-rate. Enjoyed the diversity--hiking nature trails, ecosystem, swimming and snorkeling, visiting the Embera and the Guna and all the canal history.

Most Memorable Moment:

For me the Embera people; my wife would say the canal. We did read The Path Between the Seas, cover to cover, before coming on the trip.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Tex46sam

Small ship cruise: Costa Rica and Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

Outstanding trip. Rick and Steve were extraordinary guides and our four naturalist were first-rate. Enjoyed the diversity--hiking nature trails, ecosystem, swimming and snorkeling, visiting the Embera and the Guna and all the canal history.

Most Memorable Moment:

For me the Embera people; my wife would say the canal. We did read The Path Between the Seas, cover to cover, before coming on the trip.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

jcrosby

Panama Canal & Costa Rica Eastboud

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

This trip was well-organized and provided a variety of activities.
Our Tour Guides, Rick and Steve were fantastic. They worked so very hard to make sure everything went as planned. They took care of all the travelers to make sure everyone was safe and well-cared for throughout the trip.
The ship crew was unbelievable.

Most Memorable Moment:

Going through the Panama Canal was the highlight for me. However, the two visits to idigenous groups provided insight and also fond memories.
The cruise was also special as the food was excellent and also a variety of activities were included. The crew was fantastic.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

jcrosby

Panama Canal & Costa Rica Eastboud

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

This trip was well-organized and provided a variety of activities.
Our Tour Guides, Rick and Steve were fantastic. They worked so very hard to make sure everything went as planned. They took care of all the travelers to make sure everyone was safe and well-cared for throughout the trip.
The ship crew was unbelievable.

Most Memorable Moment:

Going through the Panama Canal was the highlight for me. However, the two visits to idigenous groups provided insight and also fond memories.
The cruise was also special as the food was excellent and also a variety of activities were included. The crew was fantastic.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

rockymax

Canal passage

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

Overall Tauck lived up to it"s standard of excellence. You failed in transparency of the Panama Canal passage. Your literature mentions briefly that you cannot guarantee daytime passage. The reality is, according to the ships crew, passage of small ships occurs almost always at night. Tauck needs to confront that possibility directly.

Most Memorable Moment:

Meeting the Embera people.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you so much for your feedback and we are delighted that you enjoyed your overall trip.
The frequency of night time transits have increased in recent years, and while a daytime crossing cannot be guaranteed with the opening of the new portions of the canal we are hopeful of a greater frequency of daytime crossings in the future. Our ideal situation is a partial day, partial night crossing because guests tend to remain inside the ship on the sunny, hot days.
The new portion of the canal was to be completed in 2014, so when we published the 2015 itinerary at the beginning of 2014, we thought the new canal would certainly be complete one year later. The current schedule shows that it will be completed later this year.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

PAT and BOB cooper

Costa Rica and Panama, Small Ship Cruise

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

Fabulous time. A 'normal' Tauck experience. Everything and everyone top drawer. Excellent hotels, interpretive guides, buses, ship, ship accommodations and vittles. Just what we were hoping for. Tauck tour directors helped to make this a truly memorable experience. We are booking our next Tauck trip this week.

Most Memorable Moment:

Transit of the Panama Canal.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Glad you had a fabulous time! Thank you for your patronage.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

PAT and BOB cooper

Costa Rica and Panama, Small Ship Cruise

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2015

Fabulous time. A 'normal' Tauck experience. Everything and everyone top drawer. Excellent hotels, interpretive guides, buses, ship, ship accommodations and vittles. Just what we were hoping for. Tauck tour directors helped to make this a truly memorable experience. We are booking our next Tauck trip this week.

Most Memorable Moment:

Transit of the Panama Canal.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Glad you had a fabulous time! Thank you for your patronage.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

slats

Great Experience

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Very interesting and comfortable from beginning to end. Fellow guests friendly and good company.

Most Memorable Moment:

Crews concert - so unexpected and delivered with such panache. Wonderful!!!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

BHeaton

San Jose, Panama City east

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Exceptional from start to finish. Shore expeditions were awesome, local guides were inspired in their instructions about their country and a pleasure to listen to. Can't say enough about our tour guides they made us feel so very special like we were the first ever. The crew pampered us in every way and also made us feel special. Highly recommend.

Most Memorable Moment:

Seeing our state room for the first time. It was grand. The tour of San Jose, The wildlife refuge. Too many most memorable moments to pick anything but all of them. The enthusiasm of the Naturalists was inspiring.
Carolyn Heaton the other half of Bill Heaton

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

BHeaton

San Jose, Panama City east

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Exceptional from start to finish. Shore expeditions were awesome, local guides were inspired in their instructions about their country and a pleasure to listen to. Can't say enough about our tour guides they made us feel so very special like we were the first ever. The crew pampered us in every way and also made us feel special. Highly recommend.

Most Memorable Moment:

Seeing our state room for the first time. It was grand. The tour of San Jose, The wildlife refuge. Too many most memorable moments to pick anything but all of them. The enthusiasm of the Naturalists was inspiring.
Carolyn Heaton the other half of Bill Heaton

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

LegvoldPR

Costa Rica/Panama Small Boat Cruise

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

My wife and I really loved the trip. Everything was so well planned out and the different experiences on this trip made it a trip that everyone was able to participate in and enjoy.

Most Memorable Moment:

It has to be going through the Panama Canal. We have heard so much about it and then to actually get to go through the locks was so exciting.However, my wife's favorite was probably the waterfalls and the hummingbird experience in Costa Rica. She was amazed.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

LegvoldPR

Costa Rica/Panama Small Boat Cruise

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

My wife and I really loved the trip. Everything was so well planned out and the different experiences on this trip made it a trip that everyone was able to participate in and enjoy.

Most Memorable Moment:

It has to be going through the Panama Canal. We have heard so much about it and then to actually get to go through the locks was so exciting.However, my wife's favorite was probably the waterfalls and the hummingbird experience in Costa Rica. She was amazed.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

pacer

Panama Canal Small Ship

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Tauck kept us on the go on and off the ship - great trip. Ship hit some rough water in the Caribbean for 3 hours, rest of trip smooth. Dry season - saw no mosquitos (Feb. 2 -13). Ship Captain even turned the ship around to follow a pod of whales. We were at canal expansion center when contractor shut down all work for a payment dispute.

Most Memorable Moment:

Going through Panama locks at night with lights on the bridges.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

ray and fran

Panama Canal and Costa Rica

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

This is our eighth trip with Tauck and once again you exceeded our expectations. Everyone worked so well together to assure our comfort and a smooth and inofrmative trip. Having the four naturalists on board with us really was a plus. This was so much more than passage through the Canal. We would recommend this trip to everyone!

Most Memorable Moment:

We were blown away with the Embera people. They were simple and friendly and very talented carvers. Their Island was a paradise.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Syls Mom

The Best Tour with the Best Guides!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Great pace, wonderful staff aboard the Terre Moana, can't praise Tim & Elise enough, naturalists were a terrific balance of passion for their countries and the environments while being fun & informative, felt totally safe. Food was tasty and abundant! Rooms clean. Hated to leave the Terre Moana!

Most Memorable Moment:

Whale watching, no, seeing the macaws in the wild, no, eating a termite...getting the little gifts from Tim & Elise, no, toucans on my arms at La Paz Waterfalls...too many to chose from!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Gordon Bingham

Wonderful trip

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

This trip is for those who like to go a bit off the beaten track a bit but still have the comfort of nice hotels and a different cruise experience (small ship, stops where the big ships can't go, naturalists on board, very attentive crew, etc). Itinerary was well planned but with enough time built in for relaxation and socializing with other guests

Most Memorable Moment:

Hard to pick one: the canal was very interesting, snorkeling was great, and visits with two different groups of indigenous people was fascinating.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

WBennet

Costa Rica-Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Our first trip with Tauck became a very nice surprise as we have small shipcruised a lot before and would almost rate a 5.
Maybe we heard (which was very nice)more about animals, birds and fishes than we saw. Although the presentations were excellent by the very nice naturalists. Our Director,Steve,is a star! H
Had wished a variety of nations.

Most Memorable Moment:

Costa Rica countryside
The wonderful swimming and snorkling opportunities
The Emberas
Panama city and Chanel

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

WBennet

Costa Rica-Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Our first trip with Tauck became a very nice surprise as we have small shipcruised a lot before and would almost rate a 5.
Maybe we heard (which was very nice)more about animals, birds and fishes than we saw. Although the presentations were excellent by the very nice naturalists. Our Director,Steve,is a star! H
Had wished a variety of nations.

Most Memorable Moment:

Costa Rica countryside
The wonderful swimming and snorkling opportunities
The Emberas
Panama city and Chanel

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Nesha

Costa Rica and Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Overall an excellent trip. Some bus problems on trip from airport to the hotel. No A/C. Any way to eliminate some of the wet landings would be nice. Some landings were close enough to the beach where a ramp could have been used. The tour Directors were the best we've ever had. Scott and Steve were amazing. Hope to get them again.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Nesha

Costa Rica and Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Overall an excellent trip. Some bus problems on trip from airport to the hotel. No A/C. Any way to eliminate some of the wet landings would be nice. Some landings were close enough to the beach where a ramp could have been used. The tour Directors were the best we've ever had. Scott and Steve were amazing. Hope to get them again.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Susan Winder

Costa Rica and Panama-Eastbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Had a fantastic time- travelling alone but no worries- well taken care of. Amazing variety of things to do and see. Naturalists and tour guides very informative and interesting without being overwhelming. Tera Moana fantastic- great food, friendly service, safety conscious and fun. Places visited beautiful and varied-something for everyone-

Most Memorable Moment:

Hard to pick one.Snorkeling Granito de Oro-So much to see

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Susan Winder

Costa Rica and Panama-Eastbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Had a fantastic time- travelling alone but no worries- well taken care of. Amazing variety of things to do and see. Naturalists and tour guides very informative and interesting without being overwhelming. Tera Moana fantastic- great food, friendly service, safety conscious and fun. Places visited beautiful and varied-something for everyone-

Most Memorable Moment:

Hard to pick one.Snorkeling Granito de Oro-So much to see

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

KLowe

Costa Rica-Panama Eastbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

Wonderful Trip-Fun, interesting, enjoyable. Luggage and details are a no-worry. Information of days activities always provided. Trip leaders Steve and Scot are found to be very knowledgeable and both are fun with great sense of humor. All of ship crew were found to be much more than "they have to be." Wonderful Trip!!!

Most Memorable Moment:

I love every minute of it and when I thought it was almost over, I then find there is more. I loved the whole damn thing! I have plans to give a review of this trip to my Yacht Club at home.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

KLowe

Costa Rica-Panama Eastbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

Wonderful Trip-Fun, interesting, enjoyable. Luggage and details are a no-worry. Information of days activities always provided. Trip leaders Steve and Scot are found to be very knowledgeable and both are fun with great sense of humor. All of ship crew were found to be much more than "they have to be." Wonderful Trip!!!

Most Memorable Moment:

I love every minute of it and when I thought it was almost over, I then find there is more. I loved the whole damn thing! I have plans to give a review of this trip to my Yacht Club at home.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

DMehas

Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2014

Loved the idea by starting in Panama and cruising through the canal. We started in early February. We ended in Costa Rica. Could have done without a visit to the San Blas Islands. (very rough sea) Found the Guna Indians to be a waste of time. Felt like Tijuana. The ship I found to be below Tauck's standard but the crew was great.

Most Memorable Moment:

Visiting the Umbera Tribe in the Darian Province.Lovely people.I also enjoyed the 4 naturalists on board the ship. We had too much time to do nothing on board. Need to add more games, entertainment, bingo,etc along with some shade to sit by the pool. Maybe canopies.
The Tauck tour guides made the trip. Tim and Elise were the BEST!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Maybe

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you for sharing your comments regarding your recent trip. We are sorry that some aspects of the journey fell below your expectations but are very pleased you had some truly memorable moments. Your comments will be shared with management and reviewed. Thank you for traveling with us and we do hope you will consider us for a future journey.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

RLockshier

Panama Canal & Costa Rica

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

From the moment we arrived in San Jose to the time we departed from Panama City Tauck conducted every aspect of the trip in an outstanding manner. Tauck Tour Directors Steve [Employee Name] & [Employee Name] were ever present and guided us through what might have been our most amazing trip to date.
Life aboard the Tere Moana was personalized and excellent.

Most Memorable Moment:

Visiting the Embera village was definately a highlight of the trip.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

RLockshier

Panama Canal & Costa Rica

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

From the moment we arrived in San Jose to the time we departed from Panama City Tauck conducted every aspect of the trip in an outstanding manner. Tauck Tour Directors Steve [Employee Name] & [Employee Name] were ever present and guided us through what might have been our most amazing trip to date.
Life aboard the Tere Moana was personalized and excellent.

Most Memorable Moment:

Visiting the Embera village was definately a highlight of the trip.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

DMasters

Costa Rica/Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

Fantastic Trip! Loved the ship, Elise and Tim, the entire experience! I would highly recommend the Panama Canal trip. The guides at each location were highly informed & enthusiastic about their countries and shared their knowledge and love of each. I learned, laughed, and enjoyed every minute. It was great fun to watch the Captain enjoy his job!

Most Memorable Moment:

I loved the indigenous tribes, with the children holding our hands, sharing their village, dancing for us and seeing their beautiful creations. I also loved the experience of going thru the Panama Canal. To join the historic passage was a treat, especially on this 100th anniversary!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

sooner-or-later

Great guides and variety!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

The varied itinerary was informative & fun. The ship was very comfortable, with attentive staff. But, the guides/naturalists we had in our group, Hernan and Richard, put the whole experience over the top. They were so interesting & knowledgeable about every aspect of Panamanian life, not just wildlife. Our 1 day in PC could have gone more smoothly.

Most Memorable Moment:

There were many such moments, but we'd have to pick transiting the canal at night. All lit up, it was indeed magical and extremely interesting. We were well ahead of schedule, finishing around 12 and so we experienced the whole journey - a special evening and treat for us!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

sooner-or-later

Great guides and variety!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

The varied itinerary was informative & fun. The ship was very comfortable, with attentive staff. But, the guides/naturalists we had in our group, Hernan and Richard, put the whole experience over the top. They were so interesting & knowledgeable about every aspect of Panamanian life, not just wildlife. Our 1 day in PC could have gone more smoothly.

Most Memorable Moment:

There were many such moments, but we'd have to pick transiting the canal at night. All lit up, it was indeed magical and extremely interesting. We were well ahead of schedule, finishing around 12 and so we experienced the whole journey - a special evening and treat for us!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

LarryMargie

Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

Our trip was much more than I expected. It will be very difficult to top this trip. The Tauck tour directors, naturalists and the Terra Moana staff handled everything with ease and professionalism. We were more than pleased with our tour.

Most Memorable Moment:

The passage through the Panama Canal was the highlight but there were many more unexpected surprises throughout the trip.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

FFahner

Panama/ Costa Rica Westbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

Fantastic

Most Memorable Moment:

Hard to define

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

billzappa

Panama CanalCosta Rica

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

This was a spectacular, well-planned trip. From the hotels to the small ship, from the indigenous tribes we visited to the canal itself, to the coffee plantation, to the La Paz waterfalls we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and the way all of the Tauck staff went to the limit to assure our satisfaction, safety, and pleasure.

Most Memorable Moment:

One would think that the Panama Canal trip would be tops here, but another strong contender for this moment would be the La Paz nature preserve. The sights of the falls and the up-close with rescued animals is not to be missed.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

DFancher

Costa Rica and Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

A great introduction to Costa Rica and Panama given that we visited major cities, rain forests and indigenous tribal villages. The native guides were fabulous with a wealth of knowledge about their countries. You have to see the Panama Canal to
fully appreciate the amazing engineering feat that was accomplished 100 years ago.

Most Memorable Moment:

Walking in the rain forests transported me back 100 years in time.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

DFancher

Costa Rica and Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

A great introduction to Costa Rica and Panama given that we visited major cities, rain forests and indigenous tribal villages. The native guides were fabulous with a wealth of knowledge about their countries. You have to see the Panama Canal to
fully appreciate the amazing engineering feat that was accomplished 100 years ago.

Most Memorable Moment:

Walking in the rain forests transported me back 100 years in time.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

JTBurns

Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

Tim and Elise kept us well informed, highly entertained, and on schedule but were flexible enough to delay our departure to watch a large cargo ship pass through the locks. Our naturalists, especially Hernan gave us an exceptional education in the history, geography, and wildlife of Panama and Costa Rica. Fabulous ship crew, great shore excursions.

Most Memorable Moment:

Three memories: Nighttime transit of the Canal, visiting the Embera Indians village, and having a crew member meet you in 4 ft of water with cold drinks as you swam to shore after snorkeling

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Travelcat

Panama Canal and Costa Rica

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

A rich and varied itinerary led by truly outstanding guides made this trip spectacular. Thanks to the creativity, good cheer, and careful planning of the Tauck Tour Directors, every day was an adventure and a pleasure. The knowledgeable and friendly naturalists enhanced each activity, from touring and lecturing to walking and snorkeling.

Most Memorable Moment:

While we really enjoyed learning about the Canal, snorkeling in warm seas, walking on beaches and in rainforests, seeing beautiful waterfalls, monkeys, toucans, and parrots, the best single activity was the visit to the Embera people. Like everything else about the trip, this heart-warming event exceeded our expectations.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

travelmama

Panama Canal/Westbound

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

This was a busy tour.
Tim and Elise (tour directors) were so well informed, organized, and helpful. The actual cruise through the Canal (though at night) was most memorable and I felt like we had been well educated about the construction and the process by Tim and Elise and the naturalists who were brought on board.

Most Memorable Moment:

Obviously, passing through the Canal was the outstanding event. But, visiting Playa de Muerto and the Embera Indian community was a back-in-time opportunity. I will long remember the faces of the beautiful children who live there.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

PatCornwell

Westbound - Panama Canal & Costa Rica

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

There were some wonderful experiences, but many disappointments. Problems with the AC on the ship. Dining rooms and salon were miserably hot & humid. No shady areas on the ship. No PA system on the deck when we went thru the Panama Canal, which we crossed mostly in the dark. Food was below average at all venues.
Poor management by Tauck Directors

Most Memorable Moment:

the remote Indian villages, nature preserves and snorkeling areas. Most of the naturalists were very good. The trip directors did not manage situations very well. The Biodiversity Museum was a construction site. The first tour director we had in Costa Rica was terrible. You could not understand him. That day of the tour was a total waste of time.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?No

momframces

Panama and Costa Rica's Charm and Beauty

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2013

The trip was one of the best that I have experienced because the group was small, 90 people, we were always in small groups on our excursions and had the knowledge and expertise of naturalists to explain the areas we visited. We never questioned our safety because the tour directors handled everything and were always well prepared for anything.

Most Memorable Moment:

Traveling through the Panama Canal was one of the most exciting experiences of my life. Having one of the directors from the canal explain the process to us, as we passed through the canal, added to the experience.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Maybe

bellprairie

Escape from winter

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2013

The only reason we took this trip to Panama and Costa Rica was, in the words of the lady of the house, "Lets go somewhere warm." We had gone with Tauck on two previous trips, and we knew we would have a first class experience. Canal, good. Kuna Indians, wonderful. Embara Indians- best. Worth the trip by themselves. Busy all the time, all good.

Most Memorable Moment:

Embara tribe's culture of holding our hands going up the trail, their smiles.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Nogah

Costa Rica & Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2013

If you like nature and want to see exotic birds and animals in their natural habitat, this is a trip for you.
Crossing the Panama Canal is just amazing and you will learn the history behind it and the unbelievable labor that made it happen.
All in all........an educational and enjoyable trip.

Most Memorable Moment:

I enjoyed very much the long walk in the rain forest as well as the visit with the Emberas.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Nogah

Costa Rica & Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2013

If you like nature and want to see exotic birds and animals in their natural habitat, this is a trip for you.
Crossing the Panama Canal is just amazing and you will learn the history behind it and the unbelievable labor that made it happen.
All in all........an educational and enjoyable trip.

Most Memorable Moment:

I enjoyed very much the long walk in the rain forest as well as the visit with the Emberas.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

bhrad11

CR AND PANAMA

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2013

The entire trip was as great as we expected. The locations, tour directors, ship and naturalists on board were always available. The little extras that Steve and Scott planned for us were fun. Meeting Robin Tauck was an unexpected pleasure. As we have said in the past, we will be back. The forum was helpful and accurate. Tauck just does it right.

Most Memorable Moment:

Seeing the pacific side locks of the canal at night, all lit up.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

bhrad11

CR AND PANAMA

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2013

The entire trip was as great as we expected. The locations, tour directors, ship and naturalists on board were always available. The little extras that Steve and Scott planned for us were fun. Meeting Robin Tauck was an unexpected pleasure. As we have said in the past, we will be back. The forum was helpful and accurate. Tauck just does it right.

Most Memorable Moment:

Seeing the pacific side locks of the canal at night, all lit up.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

hsr

Fascinating and diverse experience

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

A wonderful combination of nature(rain forests,coffee plantation and snorkling), indigenous Indian groups, sightseeing in both San Jose and Panama city the trip through the Canal and days spent learning about the building and operation of canal
Tour directors and naturalistswere great lectures, movie by McCullough Tere Moana and food superb

Most Memorable Moment:

I loved everything we did and the people we were with Did not like children begging in the KUNa tribe

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

hsr

Fascinating and diverse experience

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

A wonderful combination of nature(rain forests,coffee plantation and snorkling), indigenous Indian groups, sightseeing in both San Jose and Panama city the trip through the Canal and days spent learning about the building and operation of canal
Tour directors and naturalistswere great lectures, movie by McCullough Tere Moana and food superb

Most Memorable Moment:

I loved everything we did and the people we were with Did not like children begging in the KUNa tribe

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

arizona.grandma

Indigenous Peoples to Skyscrapers

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

This trip had a wide variety of activities and I learned so much! The local guides and naturalists were superb - just what I expected from Tauck. The very civilized schedule included zodiac visits to indigenous peoples on remote islands and Panama City with its 100 skyscrapers. Experienced the Panama Canal by film, ship, and observation tower.

Most Memorable Moment:

Looking out at the Panama City skyline while waiting for our turn to enter the Canal.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

arizona.grandma

Indigenous Peoples to Skyscrapers

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

This trip had a wide variety of activities and I learned so much! The local guides and naturalists were superb - just what I expected from Tauck. The very civilized schedule included zodiac visits to indigenous peoples on remote islands and Panama City with its 100 skyscrapers. Experienced the Panama Canal by film, ship, and observation tower.

Most Memorable Moment:

Looking out at the Panama City skyline while waiting for our turn to enter the Canal.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

ROZNICK

Great trip!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

Our 4 naturalists were incredible-knowledgeable, supportive and fun. Tour directors took wonderful care of us. Ship's crew was very attentive and the food onboard was excellent. Numerous views of the Panama Canal-so interesting. We were the 1st to visit the Expansion site. Good balance of nature and site-seeing.

Most Memorable Moment:

Seeing enormous container ships while sailing through the Panama Canal!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

ROZNICK

Great trip!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

Our 4 naturalists were incredible-knowledgeable, supportive and fun. Tour directors took wonderful care of us. Ship's crew was very attentive and the food onboard was excellent. Numerous views of the Panama Canal-so interesting. We were the 1st to visit the Expansion site. Good balance of nature and site-seeing.

Most Memorable Moment:

Seeing enormous container ships while sailing through the Panama Canal!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

SusanGrace

Costa Rica/Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

We were: rained on in the rain forest, met wonderful people from native cultures, swam on our own islands, gently rocked to sleep in our berths, saw animals and birds we had only heard about, treated to the knowledge of naturalists, danced through the Panama Canal and introduced to wonderful Panama City.

Most Memorable Moment:

Only one? The whole trip is unforgettable.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

SusanGrace

Costa Rica/Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

We were: rained on in the rain forest, met wonderful people from native cultures, swam on our own islands, gently rocked to sleep in our berths, saw animals and birds we had only heard about, treated to the knowledge of naturalists, danced through the Panama Canal and introduced to wonderful Panama City.

Most Memorable Moment:

Only one? The whole trip is unforgettable.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

tcastanias

The Path Between the Seas!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

We wanted to do this trip to go through the Panama Canal - which we did! But it was so much more than that! Being on a smaller ship allowed us to go places that the bigger boats can't. We got visits to indigenous peoples, wet landings on zodiacs, hikes in the jungle seeing flora, fauna and birds! The weather was perfect too!

Most Memorable Moment:

Entering the Panama Canal at Miraflores was amazing. David McCullough's book "The Path Between the Seas" is a must read to get the true perspective on this engineering marvel. The boat ride on Gatun Lake the next day was also a big part of the experience. The Canal needs the rainforest for water supply so development is limited!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

tcastanias

The Path Between the Seas!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

We wanted to do this trip to go through the Panama Canal - which we did! But it was so much more than that! Being on a smaller ship allowed us to go places that the bigger boats can't. We got visits to indigenous peoples, wet landings on zodiacs, hikes in the jungle seeing flora, fauna and birds! The weather was perfect too!

Most Memorable Moment:

Entering the Panama Canal at Miraflores was amazing. David McCullough's book "The Path Between the Seas" is a must read to get the true perspective on this engineering marvel. The boat ride on Gatun Lake the next day was also a big part of the experience. The Canal needs the rainforest for water supply so development is limited!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Gerald Walpin

Costa Rica/Panama trip

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

Overall all, it was very well done. First, credit is primarily due to the excellence -- beyond what would ordinarily be expected -- of Steve and Scott, the two leaders of the trip. Beyond that all (but one) local guides, accommodations (excepting one) and food were excellent. Most enticing was the excellent attention and service all gave.

Most Memorable Moment:

Transit of Panama Canal

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Gerald Walpin

Costa Rica/Panama trip

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

Overall all, it was very well done. First, credit is primarily due to the excellence -- beyond what would ordinarily be expected -- of Steve and Scott, the two leaders of the trip. Beyond that all (but one) local guides, accommodations (excepting one) and food were excellent. Most enticing was the excellent attention and service all gave.

Most Memorable Moment:

Transit of Panama Canal

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

bczwilling

Much promise but a let down

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2012

Trip was interesting. Naturalists were great. Ship is out dated, food was not up to Tauck standards. Very disappointed in cuisine which should have been a highlight of a French chef. Really enjoyed the snorkeling. Should have been told in advance that transit of canal would be during the night.

Most Memorable Moment:

Snorkeling was excellent. Would have been nice to see more wildlife.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Maybe

TAUCK RESPONSE

We're pleased to hear that you found the trip interesting, especially the naturalists and snorkeling. However, we're disappointed to hear that the ship as well as food fell below your expectations. Please be assured we have shared your feedback with management and hope despite these disappointments, you returned home with great memories of these amazing places.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

bczwilling

Much promise but a let down

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2012

Trip was interesting. Naturalists were great. Ship is out dated, food was not up to Tauck standards. Very disappointed in cuisine which should have been a highlight of a French chef. Really enjoyed the snorkeling. Should have been told in advance that transit of canal would be during the night.

Most Memorable Moment:

Snorkeling was excellent. Would have been nice to see more wildlife.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Maybe

TAUCK RESPONSE

We're pleased to hear that you found the trip interesting, especially the naturalists and snorkeling. However, we're disappointed to hear that the ship as well as food fell below your expectations. Please be assured we have shared your feedback with management and hope despite these disappointments, you returned home with great memories of these amazing places.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

Kricket

Panama Canal and Costa Rica

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

Best vacation ever taken! Kim and Scott were fantastic and their tidbits and maps and suggestions just made the trip stellar! Jorge in Costa Rica made us feel like family, intertwining personal stories. The naturalists for Panama really instilled a love of their country. Ship was fantastic- small group allowed meeting variety of people- loved it!

Most Memorable Moment:

Personally it was seeing the Panama Canal at Mira Flores! with the tour group i'd have to say the farewell dinners on the ship and in Panama. There was something very special created for us which made us realize how special this tour really is! Scott and Kim created a DVD of the tour and when shown there wasn't a dry eye in the room!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Wow! We're so happy that you enjoyed yourself. This is what great travel is all about!

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

Kricket

Panama Canal and Costa Rica

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

Best vacation ever taken! Kim and Scott were fantastic and their tidbits and maps and suggestions just made the trip stellar! Jorge in Costa Rica made us feel like family, intertwining personal stories. The naturalists for Panama really instilled a love of their country. Ship was fantastic- small group allowed meeting variety of people- loved it!

Most Memorable Moment:

Personally it was seeing the Panama Canal at Mira Flores! with the tour group i'd have to say the farewell dinners on the ship and in Panama. There was something very special created for us which made us realize how special this tour really is! Scott and Kim created a DVD of the tour and when shown there wasn't a dry eye in the room!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Wow! We're so happy that you enjoyed yourself. This is what great travel is all about!

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

Parrish

Wow! Costa Rica to Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

This was our first, and we hope many more, Tauck trips. It was everything we had hoped for and more, from the tour directors, the itinerary, the quality of the ship's staff and overall accommodations and food. We are not first time travelers, but this was truly the best. Can't wait for the next one!

Most Memorable Moment:

Hard to define, but passing through the Panama Canal was a dream of ours and it was most memorable.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

So glad you loved your trip. We hope to see you again soon!

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

Parrish

Wow! Costa Rica to Panama

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

This was our first, and we hope many more, Tauck trips. It was everything we had hoped for and more, from the tour directors, the itinerary, the quality of the ship's staff and overall accommodations and food. We are not first time travelers, but this was truly the best. Can't wait for the next one!

Most Memorable Moment:

Hard to define, but passing through the Panama Canal was a dream of ours and it was most memorable.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

So glad you loved your trip. We hope to see you again soon!

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

savannah

On and Off the Beaten Path

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

Tauck succeeds once again on leading us into unknown territory, far from home. This time, Central America! It was the Panama Canal transit that first got our attention when looking for a way to escape the New Jersey winter. We also wanted to experience a Rainforest and tour San Jose and Panama City. Country and city, perfect together!

Most Memorable Moment:

Our most memorable moment was truly out of "National Geographic."We met a remote tribe of Panamanian native indians, the Embera. We were welcomed with smiles, enjoyed their dances, and were thrilled to purchase native handicrafts. Getting to their village on the zodiac pontoon boats was an exciting adventure. Tauck knows how to make us smile!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

savannah

On and Off the Beaten Path

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

Tauck succeeds once again on leading us into unknown territory, far from home. This time, Central America! It was the Panama Canal transit that first got our attention when looking for a way to escape the New Jersey winter. We also wanted to experience a Rainforest and tour San Jose and Panama City. Country and city, perfect together!

Most Memorable Moment:

Our most memorable moment was truly out of "National Geographic."We met a remote tribe of Panamanian native indians, the Embera. We were welcomed with smiles, enjoyed their dances, and were thrilled to purchase native handicrafts. Getting to their village on the zodiac pontoon boats was an exciting adventure. Tauck knows how to make us smile!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Eve

Costa Rica and the Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

Great trip except for a couple of problems. The boat (LeLevante") had a problem with the AC in all of the main areas - lounge, dining room and breakfast and lunch areas. It was too hot! Also, I'd suggest that you have the dinners that were at the hotels, at a different place.

Most Memorable Moment:

Going through the Panama Canal at night with all of the lights on, and then coming back and watching other boats go through it on another day.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

We're sorry that our partner ship Le Levant did have some A/C problems during this trip and hope that it did not cause you too much discomfort. The issue has since been resolved. Regarding the hotels, our dinner at the Intercontinental in Panama has been very well received thus far. For San Jose however, we are looking at other options for dinner and want to be sure any alternative is truly compelling for our guests as we are continually seeking to enhance the dining experience.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

Eve

Costa Rica and the Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

Great trip except for a couple of problems. The boat (LeLevante") had a problem with the AC in all of the main areas - lounge, dining room and breakfast and lunch areas. It was too hot! Also, I'd suggest that you have the dinners that were at the hotels, at a different place.

Most Memorable Moment:

Going through the Panama Canal at night with all of the lights on, and then coming back and watching other boats go through it on another day.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

We're sorry that our partner ship Le Levant did have some A/C problems during this trip and hope that it did not cause you too much discomfort. The issue has since been resolved. Regarding the hotels, our dinner at the Intercontinental in Panama has been very well received thus far. For San Jose however, we are looking at other options for dinner and want to be sure any alternative is truly compelling for our guests as we are continually seeking to enhance the dining experience.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

gardengal

Costa Rica and Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

Another wonderful Tauck trip to beautiful places! Kim was a knowledgeable tour guide and ever ready with helpful advice. And the 4 naturalists were virtual fonts of info about land and sea. The ship, LeLevant is beautiful and it's Captain and staff are all about friendly service. And our fellow travelers were fun to be with.

Most Memorable Moment:

Traversing the Panama Canal after reading David McCollough's book.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

gardengal

Costa Rica and Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

Another wonderful Tauck trip to beautiful places! Kim was a knowledgeable tour guide and ever ready with helpful advice. And the 4 naturalists were virtual fonts of info about land and sea. The ship, LeLevant is beautiful and it's Captain and staff are all about friendly service. And our fellow travelers were fun to be with.

Most Memorable Moment:

Traversing the Panama Canal after reading David McCollough's book.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Glorian

LeLevant thru the Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

The ship was great as were the excursions from the boat ... hiking, kayaking, swimming and visiting the Embera and Kuna people. The Waterfall park in San Jose was wonderful but the city tour was just so so. Panama City is a big, bustling place but the excursions we took were great.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Glorian

LeLevant thru the Panama Canal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

The ship was great as were the excursions from the boat ... hiking, kayaking, swimming and visiting the Embera and Kuna people. The Waterfall park in San Jose was wonderful but the city tour was just so so. Panama City is a big, bustling place but the excursions we took were great.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Milligan

Tauck is truly World Discovery

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2012

This superb trip enabled us to understand why Tauck adds the phrase, "World Discovery" to its name. We discovered new peoples and new worlds on this trip. We developed an appreciation for an environment totally different from home. We learned how "ego-centric" we are. All this amid sailing on a ship which seemed like our own personal yacht!

Most Memorable Moment:

Hiking through the rain forest and seeing a scarlet macaw in the wild makes the displays of our local zoo seem inappropriate.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Packing Tips

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we’ve partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site.

This is a casual tour; bring comfortable cotton shorts, pants and tops. Dress
aboard the m/v Tere Moana is relaxed, and shorts and t-shirts are appropriate
during the day. Attire in the evening is generally country club casual.
Although a jacket and tie are not required for the welcome and farewell dinners,
many of our guests like to dress up a bit for these events.

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support are a must, and also important for
this journey are reef shoes, aqua socks, Teva sandals or an old pair of sneakers
for beach landings because your feet will get wet. Due to tropical conditions
you will also need to bring a rain poncho or jacket. Don't forget a swimsuit,
and a t-shirt to wear over your swimsuit when snorkeling. Snorkeling equipment
is provided free of charge, or you may bring your own.

For higher elevations and cool, breezy nights at sea, bring a windbreaker,
sweater, or light jacket. Please also note that sundries, toiletries, and
medications are difficult to obtain during this itinerary.

Consider packing a number of garments you can wear in different combinations
over four or five days. Laundry services are available on board m/v Tere Moana.

Beyond your normal wardrobe and personal grooming items, we suggest you also
bring along:
-Comfortable walking shoes (VERY IMPORTANT!)
-Reef shoes, Teva sandals, Aqua socks, or an old pair of sneakers
-Rainwear, such as a raincoat and rain hat, plus a collapsible umbrella
-Short and long-sleeved shirts/tee shirts (extra tee shirts are always a
good idea)
-Shorts and pants for casual daytime wear
-Sport jacket for men (not required) and slacks/dress for women for evening
wear
-Lightweight sweater
-Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards or plenty of film
-Swimwear
-Sunglasses
-Sunscreen and hat (baseball caps are recommended)
-Small flashlight
-Insect repellent
-Pre-moistened towelettes and/or antibacterial lotion
-Backpack for your photographic equipment or other belongings during ship-to-
shore transfers
-Plastic zip-lock bags to protect cameras and other valuables during ship-to-
shore transfers
-Binoculars
-Travel alarm clock (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
-Prescription medicines (an adequate supply to last your journey), and written
copies of your prescriptions from your doctor. While it may be possible to
refill prescriptions during your journey, the availability of refills cannot
be guaranteed. What's more, refilling prescriptions in foreign countries can
be difficult and time-consuming.

We recommend that you pack any prescription medicines (an adequate supply for
your entire journey) along with your travel documents and a change of clothing
in your carry-on bag, in order to minimize any inconvenience should your luggage
be lost or delayed. We also recommend, for your peace of mind and personal
security, that all expensive jewelry and other valuables be left at home.

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Packing is easier with necessaryGear

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – and depending on the destination, what to pack might include footwear, sunglasses, binoculars, hats, etc. We've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Just click the link below and check out all of the great suggestions to make what you pack that much easier!

The Tauck Difference

“

This was our first, and we hope many more, Tauck trips. It was everything we had hoped for and more, from the tour directors, the itinerary, the quality of the ship's staff and overall accommodations and food. We are not first time travelers, but this was truly the best. Can't wait for the next one! We discovered new peoples and new worlds on this trip. We developed an appreciation for an environment totally different from home. We learned how "ego-centric" we are. All this amid sailing on a ship which seemed like our own personal yacht!